瑕

An internal flaw, crack, or impurity in jade. Broadly used to denote a fault or defect in something otherwise of high quality, nobility, or virtue.

Primarily functions as a noun ("a flaw") or an attributive modifier ("flawed"). It describes a state of imperfection rather than an action and is not typically used as a verb meaning "to damage."

Compared to 疵 (cī), which can be any general blemish, 瑕 specifically suggests a flaw within an object of high value or a person of fundamental virtue. Compared to 玷 (diàn), which typically refers to an external stain or surface smudge, 瑕 describes an internal structural flaw inherent to the essence of the object.

Fanqie reading: 胡加; Tang-period reading: ha.

The use of 瑕 often implies an acknowledgment of the subject's underlying value (i.e., that they are essentially "jade"). This can function as a backhanded compliment, confirming inherent virtue while noting a specific exception. Contextual renderings may include "blemish," "foible," or "imperfection."